A new development by INTA brought a quick response and solution in the midst of the harsh winter that Argentina is experiencing.
The National Institute of Agricultural Technology created an innovative drinker that prevents water from freezing, ensuring constant hydration for livestock and other animals in extreme climates.
The initiative was driven by INTA Chubut, in collaboration with specialists from the national organization.
It arose in response to a recurring problem in Patagonian regions and rural high mountain areas, where water in drinkers tends to freeze during the early hours of the morning, putting the health and performance of animals at risk.
The anti-freezing drinker, INTA’s new development accessible to producers
The new design is based on a system of double thermally insulated container, which prevents the formation of ice in water exposed to subzero temperatures.
Made with resistant and economical materials, the model is designed so that small and medium-sized agricultural producers can easily replicate it.
The frozen waterfall in Neuquén due to extreme cold in Argentina. (Photo: LM Neuquén).
In addition, INTA shared blueprints, instructions, and a tutorial video to facilitate the self-managed construction of the drinker.
The aim is to promote technological sovereignty in the field and reduce dependence on expensive or imported solutions.
“The goal is to provide a practical tool that can be adapted to different productive realities. These accessible technologies are key to improving animal welfare and sustaining agricultural activity in adverse conditions,” stated INTA Chubut.
Improvement in productivity and animal welfare
INTA’s drinkers. (Photo: INTA).
During polar cold spells or intense cold days, animals tend to reduce their water intake if it is frozen, which can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and lower productivity, both in beef cattle and dairy animals.
This anti-freezing drinker represents a concrete solution to prevent this negative impact on production.
The development is part of a series of INTA actions aimed at strengthening the resilience of the rural sector against climate change, and promoting sustainable technologies adapted to the country’s environmental challenges.
Available for producers nationwide
The prototype has already been successfully tested on farms in the Patagonian region and is available for implementation in other provinces affected by the cold.
Interested producers can access the complete technical manual and explanatory video through INTA’s official channels.
With this innovation, INTA once again positions itself as a key player in the development of practical and sustainable solutions for Argentine agriculture, especially in contexts where climate poses a barrier to animal welfare and productivity.
